James Milner charity work to be recognised

Liverpool vice-captain James Milner's tireless work for charity is set to be recognised at the Leesa Northwest Football Awards this evening.

The 31-year-old's significant positive impact on football in the region, in particular his work off the pitch, has earned him the inaugural Impact Award, which will be presented at a special event in Manchester.

The James Milner Foundation has helped to provide sporting and educational opportunities for young people across the north of England, including funding sports camps in Liverpool, the GB Deaf Football Team, Dominoes Netball and the Leeds Rhinos Foundation.

Milner has also worked closely with the NSPCC, blood cancer charity Bloodwise and Help For Heroes.

The Reds No.7 said: "When I heard that the Leesa Northwest Football Awards judging panel were planning to recognise me for my work both on and off the pitch, I was hugely honoured.

"This is not just an award for me, but for all those who have supported the Foundation since its inception, and all those we have been able to help through our crucial work.

"I am lucky that I get to do a job that I love every day, and it is very special to me that I am able to use this as a force for good to help so many others.

"I am grateful to the Leesa Northwest Football Awards for honouring me in this way."